Sequence Inversion to Facilitate Concurrent Radiotherapy and Systemic Therapy. A Proof of Principle Study in the Setting of a Phase II Randomized Trial in Prostate Cancer

Background: Concomitant chemo-radiation for pelvic cancers remains challenging to be delivered at full doses. We hypothesized that fewer delays in chemotherapy would occur if the sequence of radiotherapy would be reversed, starting with the boost volume followed by the elective nodal volume. We report the result of a Phase II randomized study for high risk prostate cancer. Patients and Method: The study was a double-blinded phase II randomized trial. Patients were eligible if they had non-metastatic high-risk prostate cancer. All patients received 2.5 years of hormonal therapy and 46.5 Gy in 25 fractions to the pelvic lymph nodes. Patients received a radiation boost to the prostate, either before or after whole pelvic irradiation. Concurrent (20 mg/m²) Docetaxel was given on the first day of radiotherapy and weekly thereafter for a total of eight treatments until predefined toxicity stopping rules. Results: Ninety patients were included and randomized. Four were ineligible for the analysis. In total, 42 patients were randomized to the standard sequence, 44 patients to the experimental sequence. There were statistically fewer GI or GU toxicities leading to a docetaxel dose reduction or omission in the experimental sequence compared to the standard sequence, 5 vs. 15 events (p = 0.027). There was no difference in overall survival, cause-specific survival, or biochemical-relapse free survival between the two sequences. Conclusions: This is the first study to test sequence inversion for pelvic radio-chemotherapy in a randomized double-blind trial. Less chemotherapy interruptions or dose reductions occurred by inverting the radiation sequence of the large field and the boost. The trial was registered with Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00452556.

Clinical dilemmas in local and regional testis cancer

At the Canadian Testis Cancer Workshop, the multidisciplinary management of testis cancer care was discussed. The two-day workshop involved urologists, medical and radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, physician's assistants, residents, fellows, nurses, patients, and patient advocacy group members.This review summarizes the discussion regarding clinical dilemmas in local and regional testis cancer. We present cases that highlight the need for a coordinated approach to individualize care. Overarching themes include the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to testis cancer, willingness to involve a high-volume experienced center, and given that the oncological outcomes are excellent, a reminder that clinical decisions need to prioritize selecting a strategy with the least treatment-related morbidity when safe.

Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals profibrotic roles of distinct epithelial and mesenchymal lineages in pulmonary fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a form of chronic lung disease characterized by pathologic epithelial remodeling and accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). To comprehensively define the cell types, mechanisms, and mediators driving fibrotic remodeling in lungs with PF, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of single-cell suspensions from 10 nonfibrotic control and 20 PF lungs. Analysis of 114,396 cells identified 31 distinct cell subsets/states. We report that a remarkable shift in epithelial cell phenotypes occurs in the peripheral lung in PF and identify several previously unrecognized epithelial cell phenotypes, including a KRT5- /KRT17 + pathologic, ECM-producing epithelial cell population that was highly enriched in PF lungs. Multiple fibroblast subtypes were observed to contribute to ECM expansion in a spatially discrete manner. Together, these data provide high-resolution insights into the complexity and plasticity of the distal lung epithelium in human disease and indicate a diversity of epithelial and mesenchymal cells contribute to pathologic lung fibrosis.

Application of IMDC criteria across first-line (1L) and second-line (2L) therapies in metastatic renal-cell carcinoma (mRCC): New and updated benchmarks of clinical outcomes

5063

Background: In patients with mRCC, the International mRCC Database Consortium (IMDC) criteria have been validated as a prognostic tool in patients treated with targeted therapy in the 1-4L settings and with 2L Nivolumab (Nivo). However, it is unknown whether the IMDC criteria can be used to risk stratify in recently approved 1L IO combination therapies, including Ipilimumab + Nivolumab (IOIO) and Axitinib + Pembrolizumab/Avelumab (IOVE). We sought to assess the ability of the IMDC criteria to risk stratify with the use of novel 1L IO combinations and provide updated benchmarks for older 1L and 2L treatments. Methods: Patients with mRCC starting systemic therapy between 2010-2019 were identified through the IMDC. IMDC risk score was calculated at the time of starting the line of therapy of interest. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) from time of initiating the treatment of interest. Results: From a total of 6596 unique patients, 5043 treated in the 1L setting and 2498 treated in the 2L setting were included in the analysis. Across the entire cohort, median age was 61, 73% were male, 16% had sarcomatoid features, 79% underwent nephrectomy and 88% had clear-cell histology. IMDC risk groups for 1L and 2L treatment were 17%, 57%, 27% and 10%, 60%, 30% for favourable-, intermediate- and poor-risk disease, respectively. IMDC criteria appropriately risk stratified into 3 prognostic groups in 1L IOIO and 1L IOVE combinations, in addition to older treatments: 1L VEGF TT, 2L VEGF TT, 2L Nivo and 2L Everolimus. Results are displayed in Table. Due to the novelty of 1L IO combinations, median follow up time was shorter and thus landmark OS values are presented. Conclusions: IMDC criteria may be used to risk stratify in recently approved 1L IO combination therapies in addition to older 1L and 2L treatments. These data provide contemporary benchmarks for OS that may be used for patient counseling and trial design. [Table: see text]

Outcomes of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) treated with first-line Immuno-oncology (IO) agents who do not meet eligibility criteria for clinical trials

5070

Background: IO combination therapies [including IOIO and IO/vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor (IOVE) combinations] in mRCC have been approved based on registration clinical trials that have strict eligibility criteria. The clinical outcomes of trial ineligible patients who are treated with first-line IOIO or IOVE combinations are unknown. Methods: Metastatic RCC patients treated with first-line IOIO or IOVE were retrospectively deemed ineligible for clinical trials (according to commonly used inclusion/exclusion criteria in IO trials) if they had a Karnofsky performance status (KPS) < 70%, no clear-cell component, brain metastases, hemoglobin (Hb) < 9 g/dL, eGFR < 40 mL/min, platelet count of < 100,000/mm3, and/or neutrophil count < 1500/mm3. Time to treatment failure (TTF) and overall survival (OS) were calculated from time of starting first-line IO therapy. Results: Overall, 26% (155/592) of patients in the International mRCC Database Consortium (IMDC) were deemed ineligible for clinical trials by the above criteria. Baseline characteristics are listed in Table. The reasons for ineligibility were: no clear-cell component (34%, 53/155), Hb < 9g/dL (28%, 44/155), eGFR < 40 mL/min (19%, 30/155), brain metastases (19%, 29/155), KPS < 70% (14%, 21/155), platelet < 100,000/mm3 (3%, 4/155) and neutrophil count < 1500/mm3 (0%, 0/155). Between ineligible versus eligible patients, the response rate, median TTF and median OS of first-line IOIO or IOVE was 34% vs 46% (p = 0.02), 4.2 vs 9.7 months (p < 0.01), and 25.3 vs 44.4 months (p < 0.01), respectively. When adjusted by the IMDC prognostic categories, the HR for death between trial ineligible and trial eligible patients was 1.50 (95% CI 1.05-2.14). Conclusions: The number of patients that are ineligible for clinical trials is substantial and their outcomes are inferior. These data may guide patient counselling and specific trials addressing the unmet needs of protocol ineligible patients are warranted. [Table: see text]

Immune checkpoint inhibitors in genitourinary malignancies

Although immune-mediated therapies have been used in genitourinary (gu) malignancies for decades, recent advances with monoclonal antibody checkpoint inhibitors (cpis) have led to a number of promising treatment options. In renal cell carcinoma (rcc), cpis have been shown to have benefit over conventional therapies in a number of settings, and they are the standard of care for many patients with metastatic disease. Based on recent data, combinations of cpis and antiangiogenic therapies are likely to become a new standard approach in rcc. In urothelial carcinoma, cpis have been shown to have a role in the second-line treatment of metastatic disease, and a number of clinical trials are actively investigating cpis for other indications. In other gu malignancies, such as prostate cancer, results to date have been less promising. Immunotherapies continue to be an area of active study for all gu disease sites, with several clinical trials ongoing. In this review, we summarize the current evidence for cpi use in rcc, urothelial carcinoma, prostate cancer, testicular germ-cell tumours, and penile carcinoma. Ongoing clinical trials of interest are highlighted, as are the challenges that clinicians and patients will potentially face as immune cpis become a prominent feature in the treatment of gu cancers.

Cost analysis of post-nephrectomy follow-up schedules from three North American clinical practice guidelines for localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC)

657

Background: Several guidelines have been developed for follow up of patients after nephrectomy for RCC. The direct financial cost of following recommendations in three North American guidelines were estimated in this analysis. Methods: Recommendations from the American Urological Association (AUA), Canadian Urological Association (CUA), and National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) for post-radical nephrectomy care were compiled. Data regarding costs of testing and physician visits were obtained from the Ontario Health Insurance Plan Schedule of Benefits. Both the cost per patient completing five years of surveillance (scenario A), and the estimated cost adjusted for attrition from predicted recurrences (scenario B) were calculated. A sensitivity analysis was performed and will be presented. Results: For five years of follow up of a single patient in both scenarios, the costs are summarized in the table. For scenario A, follow up costs ranged from $515-1112 for T1N0, $1639-2746 for T2N0, $1856-2746 for T3/4 and $1918-2746 TxN+. For scenario B, costs were $497-1051 for T1N0, $1259-2198 for T2N0, $1008-1595 for T3/4N0 and $1043-1595 for TxN+. Conclusions: The AUA, CUA, and NCCN guidelines showed considerable differences in their associated costs, particularly when expected recurrences were accounted for. The NCCN recommendations are predicted to be the costliest to implement, irrespective of stage.[Table: see text]

Second-line VEGF TKI after IO combination therapy: Results from the International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Database Consortium (IMDC)

684

Background: Immuno-Oncology (IO) combinations are standard of care first-line treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Data on therapy with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) post-progression on IO-combination therapy are limited. Methods: Using the IMDC, a retrospective analysis was done on mRCC patients treated with second-line VEGF TKIs after receiving IO combination therapy. Patients received first-line ipilimumab+nivolumab (IOIO) or anti-PD(L)1+anti-VEGF (IOVE). Baseline variables and second-line IMDC risk factors were collected. Overall response rates (ORR), time to treatment failure (TTF) and overall survival (OS) were determined. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was performed. Results: 142 patients were included. 75 patients received IOIO and 67 received IOVE pretreatment. The ORR of 2nd line therapy was 17/46 (37%) and 7/57 (12%) in the IOIO and IOVE pretreated groups, respectively (p<0.01). 2nd-line TTF was 5.4 months (95% CI 4.1-8.3) for the IOIO- and 4.6 months (95% CI 3.7-5.8) for the IOVE-pretreated group (p=0.37). 2nd-line median OS was 17.2 months (95% CI 10.8-35.1) and 11.8 months (95% CI 9.9-21.3) for the prior IOIO and IOVE groups, respectively (p=0.13). The hazard ratio adjusted by IMDC for IOVE vs IOIO pretreatment was 1.22 (95% CI 0.73-2.07, p=0.45) for 2nd line TTF and 1.43 (95% CI 0.74-2.8, p=0.29) for 2nd line OS. Conclusions: VEGF TKIs show activity after combination IO therapy. Response rates are higher in patients treated with VEGF TKIs after first-line IOIO compared to after IOVE. In patients with VEGF TKI after IOIO or IOVE, no difference in OS and TTF was observed.[Table: see text]

Real-world evidence of cabozantinib in metastatic renal-cell carcinoma (mRCC): Results from the Canadian Kidney Cancer Information System (CKCis)

682

Background: Cabozantinib is a multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that has demonstrated efficacy in mRCC randomized trials. Less is known about the activity of cabozantinib in patients (pts) exposed to immuno-oncology (IO) agents. We explored the real-world effectiveness of cabozantinib, including in pts who had progressed on IO therapy. Methods: Using CKCis, a prospective Canadian database, pts treated with cabozantinib monotherapy as second-line or later were identified. Baseline clinical and treatment characteristics were collected. Rates of partial response (PR), stable disease (SD), progressive disease (PD) and disease control (DCR, PR+SD) were determined along with median time to treatment failure (mTTF) and median overall survival (mOS). Results: A total of 156 pts were identified. Median age was 62 years (range 21-84), 74% of pts had clear-cell histology, and 54% had > 3 sites of metastases (12% in CNS, 47% in bone). At time of cabozantinib start, 34% had KPS score < 80. Outcomes are described below. Conclusions: The effectiveness of cabozantinib observed in this real-world population was consistent with results from clinical trials. Cabozantinib also appears to provide benefit to mRCC pts who have progressed on prior IO therapy, and should be incorporated into contemporary treatment algorithms. Further follow up is ongoing.[Table: see text]

Impact of early identification of brain metastases in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC)

620

Background: Up to one-third of patients with mRCC can present with asymptomatic brain metastases (BM). Timely identification of BM allows for the delivery of early local interventions, which may lead to improved patient outcomes. To investigate the potential utility of routine intra-cranial imaging, we compared the outcomes of mRCC patients with asymptomatic versus symptomatic BM. Methods: Using the Canadian Kidney Cancer information system (CKCis) database, we identified mRCC patients diagnosed with BM between 2011 and 2018. This cohort was divided into two groups dependent on the presence or absence of neurological symptoms. Baseline patient demographics, clinico-pathological disease characteristics and survival data were extracted. Statistical analysis was through chi-square tests, analysis of variance and Kaplan-Meier method to characterize survival outcomes. Results: 269 mRCC patients with BM were identified with the majority presenting with symptomatic disease (n=163; 61%). No significant differences in clinico-pathological disease characteristics were identified. Median overall survival (OS) from mRCC diagnosis for asymptomatic patients was 33.4 months (interquartile range, IQR 27.8-64.4) versus 34.5 months (20.4-43.4) for symptomatic patients (p=0.35). Median OS from time of BM diagnosis revealed a trend favoring asymptomatic, as compared to symptomatic, patients [24.5 (17.6-24.9) vs. 13.1 months (9.0-20.6), p=0.06]. Factors associated with worse OS from time of BM diagnosis included presentation with symptomatic BM [hazard ratio, HR (95% CI): 1.40 (1.03-1.90), p=0.034] and International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Consortium Database (IMDC)-characterized intermediate/poor risk disease [HR (95% CI): 1.47 (1.01-2.13), p=0.045]. Conclusions: Routine intra-cranial imaging may lead to earlier identification of BM in mRCC. However, further investigation as to whether this practice improves survival is warranted.

Cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) or targeted therapy (TT): A propensity score-based analysis

608

Background: The role of CN for mRCC treated with ICI is not well defined. Our aim was to evaluate the role of CN for mRCC treated by ICI or TT using a propensity score-based analysis. Methods: We retrospectively assessed patients who were diagnosed with de novo mRCC and who had started first line systemic therapy (ICI or TT) between 2009 and 2019 using the International Metastatic RCC Database Consortium (IMDC). Overall Survival (OS) was compared between patients receiving CN and those treated by systemic therapies alone, using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regressions, in the TT and ICI arms separately. In order to account for treatment selection bias, inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) of propensity scores, based on 14 confounding variables, was used and variables were considered balanced if standardized mean difference (SMD) < 0.1. For variables with SMD≥0.1, residual confounding was adjusted for using multivariable models. Results: 3856 patients had been treated by TT (2470 CN+ & 1386 CN-) and 198 by ICI (143 CN+ & 55 CN-). Median follow-up was 38.5 months. After IPTW, baseline characteristics were largely balanced between the CN+ and CN- arms, in the TT and ICI groups (14/14 and 12/14 with SMD < 0.1, respectively). CN was associated with significantly improved OS in both the ICI (Hazard Ratio [HR] = 0.39 [0.19-0.83]) and TT (HR = 0.56 [0.51-0.62]) groups. The interaction term between CN and therapy type (ICI vs TT) was not statistically significant (p = 0.43). The point estimates of the HRs were consistent in sensitivity analyses using multivariable models. Conclusions: In a propensity score-based analysis, CN was found to be associated with a significant OS benefit in patients treated by either ICI or TT. While this study is not a substitute for randomized controlled trials (e.g. CARMENA), the results suggest that CN may still play a role in selected patients in the ICI era.[Table: see text]

Real-world utilization and safety of ipilimumab plus nivolumab (I+N) in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) patients: Results from the Canadian Kidney Cancer Information System (CKCis)

633

Background: I+N is now standard of care for first line treatment of intermediate/poor risk mRCC patients (pts). Real world data is vital to understand drug usage, toxicity and outcomes in non-trial pts. This project describes the amount and tolerability of treatment delivered including discontinuation rates, reasons for discontinuation and outcomes from the CKCis database. Methods: Pts in CKCis, a prospective Canadian database from 15 academic centers, who received first line I+N were included. The number of doses of I+N, number of pts who received single-agent nivolumab (N) and duration of single agent N were determined. Reasons for treatment discontinuation, including the rate, type, and grade of toxicities were identified. Efficacy outcomes included time to failure (TTF – time to progression, death, or second line therapy), overall response rate (ORR) and overall survival (OS). Results: The cohort consists of 182 pts. Median age was 63 yrs, 71% had clear cell histology, 11% were on a clinical trial, the IMDC risk distribution was 5% good, 63% intermediate, 32% poor. Median follow up was 8.8 m. All 4 I+N doses were received by 30% of pts of which 78% went on to receive single-agent N. Less than 4 doses of I+N were received by 70% of pts of which 28% went on to receive single-agent N. The median time on single agent N was 5.7 m. In the entire cohort, 21% of patients discontinued therapy due to toxicity. The most common toxicity events were colitis (56% of all events), pneumonitis (19%), and hepatitis (8%). There were no toxicity-related deaths. Median OS has not been reached (22 events to date). Median TTF was 12.4 m. ORR was 32% (5% complete responses). 26% of pts received second line treatment, the most common being sunitinib in 79%. Conclusions: In this real world cohort, the majority of mRCC pts did not receive all 4 doses of I+N, contrasting with clinical trial reporting, yet many of these pts went on to receive single agent N. Discontinuation rates due to toxicity were similar to those reported in CheckMate 214. Further follow up is ongoing and efficacy outcomes analyzed on the basis of treatment quantity/duration will be presented.

Comparison of Immediate vs Deferred Cytoreductive Nephrectomy in Patients With Synchronous Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Receiving Sunitinib: The SURTIME Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

In clinical practice, patients with primary metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) have been offered cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) followed by targeted therapy, but the optimal sequence of surgery and systemic therapy is unknown.

Objective

To examine whether a period of sunitinib therapy before CN improves outcome compared with immediate CN followed by sunitinib.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial began as a phase 3 trial on July 14, 2010, and continued until March 24, 2016, with a median follow-up of 3.3 years and a clinical cutoff date for this report of May 5, 2017. Patients with mRCC of clear cell subtype, resectable primary tumor, and 3 or fewer surgical risk factors were studied.

Interventions

Immediate CN followed by sunitinib therapy vs treatment with 3 cycles of sunitinib followed by CN in the absence of progression followed by sunitinib therapy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Progression-free survival was the primary end point, which needed a sample size of 458 patients. Because of poor accrual, the independent data monitoring committee endorsed reporting the intention-to-treat 28-week progression-free rate (PFR) instead. Overall survival (OS), adverse events, and postoperative progression were secondary end points.

Results

The study closed after 5.7 years with 99 patients (80 men and 19 women; mean [SD] age, 60 [8.5] years). The 28-week PFR was 42% in the immediate CN arm (n = 50) and 43% in the deferred CN arm (n = 49) (P = .61). The intention-to-treat OS hazard ratio of deferred vs immediate CN was 0.57 (95% CI, 0.34-0.95; P = .03), with a median OS of 32.4 months (95% CI, 14.5-65.3 months) in the deferred CN arm and 15.0 months (95% CI, 9.3-29.5 months) in the immediate CN arm. In the deferred CN arm, 48 of 49 patients (98%; 95% CI, 89%-100%) received sunitinib vs 40 of 50 (80%; 95% CI, 67%-89%) in the immediate arm. Systemic progression before planned CN in the deferred CN arm resulted in a per-protocol recommendation against nephrectomy in 14 patients (29%; 95% CI, 18%-43%).

Conclusions and Relevance

Deferred CN did not improve the 28-week PFR. With the deferred approach, more patients received sunitinib and OS results were higher. Pretreatment with sunitinib may identify patients with inherent resistance to systemic therapy before planned CN. This evidence complements recent data from randomized clinical trials to inform treatment decisions in patients with primary clear cell mRCC requiring sunitinib.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01099423.

Early removal of catheters in an Enhanced Recovery Pathway (ERP) with intrathecal opioid injection does not affect postoperative urinary outcomes

BACKGROUND

Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) are associated with significantly longer hospital length-of-stay and increased costs.¹ This study investigates the effect of early removal of urinary catheters on POUR and CAUTI in patients undergoing an ERP with a preoperative intrathecal injection.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent elective colorectal surgery in an Enhanced Recovery pathway was compared to historical National Surgical Quality Improvement Program cohort of patients. Primary outcomes measured are 30-day POUR and postoperative CAUTI rates.

RESULTS

The overall POUR rate of ERP patients compared to non-ERP patients was significantly less (8% vs. 13%, p < 0.05). CAUTI rates were not significantly different between pre-ERP and ERP patients (1.2 vs 2.3%, p = 0.19).

CONCLUSIONS

For patients undergoing ERP with a preoperative intrathecal opioid injection, early removal of urinary catheter significantly decreased POUR and did not significantly affect CAUTI rates.

SUMMARY

The effect of early removal of urinary catheters on postoperative urinary retention and catheter-associated UTI rates in patients undergoing an ERP with a single preoperative intrathecal opioid injection was studied. Early urinary catheter removal after intrathecal injection was associated with decreased rates of POUR and equivalent CAUTI rates.

Renal cell carcinoma in the Canadian Indigenous population

Background

Diagnosis and treatment of renal cell carcinoma (rcc) might be different in Indigenous Canadians than in non-Indigenous Canadians. In this cohort study, we compared rcc presentation and treatments in Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.

Methods

Patients registered in the Canadian Kidney Cancer Information System treated at 16 institutions between 2011 and 2018 were included. Baseline patient, tumour, and treatment characteristics were compared between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. The primary objective was to determine if differences in rcc stage at diagnosis were evident between the groups. The secondary objective was to determine if treatments and outcomes were different between the groups.

Results

During the study period, 105 of the 4529 registered patients self-identified as Indigenous. Those patients were significantly younger at the time of clinical diagnosis (57.9 ± 11.3 years vs. 62.0 ± 12.1 years, p = 0.0006) and had a family history prevalence of rcc that was double the prevalence in the non-Indigenous patients (14% vs. 7%, p = 0.004). Clinical stage at diagnosis was similar in the two groups (p = 0.61). The disease was metastatic at presentation in 11 Indigenous Canadians (10%) and in 355 non-Indigenous Canadians (8%). Comorbid conditions that could affect the management of rcc-such as obesity, renal disease, diabetes mellitus, and smoking-were more common in Indigenous Canadians (p < 0.05). Indigenous Canadians experienced a lower rate of active surveillance (p = 0.01). Treatments and median time to treatments were similar in the two groups.

Conclusions

Compared with their non-Indigenous counterparts, Indigenous Canadian patients with rcc are diagnosed at an earlier age and at a similar clinical stage. Despite higher baseline comorbid conditions, clinical outcomes are not worse for Indigenous Canadians than for non-Indigenous Canadians.

First-line (1L) immuno-oncology (IO) combination therapies in metastatic renal-cell carcinoma (mRCC): Results from the international mRCC database consortium (IMDC)

4577

Background: In mRCC, ipilimumab and nivolumab (ipi-nivo) is a 1L treatment option. Recent data have also shown efficacy of 1L IO-VEGF (IOVE) inhibitor combinations. Comparative data between these two strategies are limited and the efficacy of subsequent therapies remains unknown. Methods: Using the IMDC dataset, patients (pts) treated with any 1L IOVE combination were compared to those treated with ipi-nivo. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was performed to control for imbalances in IMDC risk factors. Results: 188 pts received 1L IO combination therapy: 113 treated with IOVE combinations and 75 with ipi-nivo. Baseline characteristics and IMDC risk factors were comparable between groups. When comparing IOVE combinations vs ipi-nivo, 1L response rate (RR) was 33% vs 40% (p=0.39), time to treatment failure (TTF) was 14.3 (95% CI 9.2-16.1) vs 10.2 months (95% CI 6.7-15.1, p=0.23), and median overall survival (OS) was not reached (NR) (95% CI 22.3-NR) vs NR (95% CI 35.1-NR, p=0.17). When adjusted for IMDC risk factors, the hazard ratio (HR) for TTF was 0.71 (95% CI 0.46-1.12, p=0.14) and the HR for death was 1.74 (95% CI 0.82-3.68, p=0.14). Second-line (2L) treatments were varied. In pts receiving subsequent VEGF-based therapy, 2L RR was lower in the IOVE (n=20) versus ipi-nivo (n=20) cohort (15% vs 45%; p=0.04), though 2L TTF was not significantly different (3.7 vs 5.4 months, p=0.40, n=55). The use of IO post IOVE was uncommon and 3/5 pts had PD as best response; 2/5 had PR/SD but their 1L IOVE exposure was short at <3 months. Conclusions: There does not appear to be a superior 1L IO combination strategy in mRCC, as lOVE combinations and ipi-nivo have comparable 1L RR, TTF and OS. Most pts received VEGF-based therapy in the 2L. In this group, 2L RR was greater in pts who received ipi-nivo, though there was no difference in 2L TTF. [Table: see text]

Delay in diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal cancer in Nepal

e18269

Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers represent a major health challenge worldwide including Nepal where patients (pts) often present with advanced disease. The purpose of this study was to determine the time delay in diagnosis and treatment by evaluating time from first symptoms to diagnosis and treatment and to identify contributing factors from both pts and the health system in Nepal. Methods: An IRB approved cross sectional study was performed in pts with GI cancers. 50 newly diagnosed pts were enrolled and interviewed with a standardized questionnaire during the last 6 months of 2018. Diagnosis delay was defined as time from first symptoms to histopathological diagnosis. Treatment delay was defined as time from diagnosis to surgery and/or treatment by medical/ radiation oncologist. Results: The median age at diagnosis was 52.5 years. 52% had gastroesophageal cancer and 48% had colorectal cancer. 84% presented with Stage III/ IV disease. The median diagnosis delay was 217 days and the median treatment delay was 37 days. The median patient delay (time from first symptoms to first medical consultation) was 150 days. 64% were illiterate, 94% had a history of self medication prior to first medical consultation, 68% were from rural areas with limited healthcare facilities and 72% were unaware of causes of GI cancers. Reasons for diagnostic delay appear to be self diagnosis, self medication and lack of a prompt referral system. Reasons for treatment delay included financial constraint, prolonged wait times for procedures and treatment due to limited skilled manpower. Conclusions: Our data shows there is a significant delay in diagnosis and treatment especially in the time from first symptoms to first medical consultation. We found many preventable reasons for this that, if addressed appropriately, could have a significant impact on reducing the morbidity and mortality of GI cancers. There is an urgent need for intensive and comprehensive cancer education in Nepal and other developing countries.

Updated results from a randomized phase II study of cabazitaxel (CAB) versus abiraterone (ABI) or enzalutamide (ENZ) in poor prognosis metastatic CRPC

5003

Background: The treatment for poor prognosis mCRPC includes taxanes and androgen receptor (AR) targeted therapy, however the optimal treatment is undefined. Methods: Patients (pts) with poor prognosis (liver metastases, early CRPC ( < 12 months from ADT start), and/or > 3 of 6 poor prognostic criteria (Chi et al, Annals of Oncol, 2016)) were randomized to receive CAB (Arm A) or AR targeted therapy (Arm B, ABI or ENZ by investigator choice) with cross over at progression. Primary objective was to determine the clinical benefit rate (CBR) (PSA decline ≥50% (PSA50), objective response (OR), or stable disease (SD) ≥ 12 weeks). Plasma was sampled serially for circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA). Results: 95 pts were randomized (Arm A: 45, Arm B: 50): 18% had liver mets, 88% early CRPC and 30% had > 3 of 6 poor prognostic criteria. 52% of pts had prior docetaxel, half for castration sensitive disease. Table summarizes 1st-line therapy outcomes. Baseline ctDNA fraction > 15% (median) was associated with shorter 1st-line progression-free survival (PFS) (median 2.8 vs 8.4 m, HR = 2.54, P < 0.001) and overall survival (OS) (median 14.0 vs 38.7 m, HR = 2.64, P = 0.001). ctDNA alterations in AR, TP53, PI3K pathway, RB1 and DNA repair were detected in 53%, 45%, 31%, 23%, and 21% of pts. Shorter PFS and OS were associated with AR gain (HR 2.57 (95% CI 1.63-4.06); HR 3.59, (1.9-6.69), respectively) and TP53 defects (HR 2.62 (CI 1.65-4.15); HR 3.33 (CI 1.8-6.14), respectively). Pts with concurrent defects in TP53 and RB1 had a trend for worse PFS/OS than pts with TP53 defect alone. AR rearrangements predicted to disrupt the ligand binding domain were detected in 6% of pts and had a shorter PFS (HR = 2.60 (1.11 - 6.09)) with a trend for shorter OS (HR = 2.27 (0.89 - 5.81)). Conclusions: In this poor prognosis cohort, 1st-line treatment with CAB had a higher clinical benefit rate than treatment with ABI/ENZA. Elevated ctDNA and genomic alterations in AR and TP53 were prognostic. Supported in part by Sanofi. Clinical trial information: NCT02254785. [Table: see text]

Active surveillance in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC): Results from the Canadian Kidney Cancer information system (CKCis)

4516

Background: Active surveillance (AS) is a commonly used strategy in patients (pts) with low tumor burden or slow growing disease. However, few studies have assessed AS for mRCC compared to immediate treatment. We aimed to assess the outcomes and safety of AS in comparison to immediate systemic treatment for mRCC pts. Methods: Using CKCis, mRCC pts diagnosed between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2016 were identified. AS strategy was defined as: (1) start of systemic therapy ≥6 months after diagnosis of mRCC; or (2) never receiving systemic therapy for mRCC with an overall survival (OS) ≥1 yr (OS ≥ 1 yr a surrogate to exclude pts not started on treatment due to poor prognosis). Pts starting systemic treatment < 6 months after diagnosis of mRCC were defined as receiving immediate systemic treatment. OS and time until 1st line treatment failure (TTF) between the two cohorts were compared. Results: A total of 863 pts met criteria for AS (cohort A). Of these, 370 started treatment ≥ 6 months after their initial diagnosis (cohort A1) and 493 never received systemic treatment and were alive for ≥1 year (cohort A2). 848 pts received immediate systemic treatment (cohort B). Median age for pts in cohort A and B was 65.1 (19.0-91.5) vs. 62.2 yrs (23.1-87.1) (p < 0.0001). Sex distribution was not statistically different. Pts in cohort A had fewer sites of metastatic disease vs. cohort B ( < 0.0001) and 23% of pts in cohort A had metastasectomy vs. 5% in cohort B (P = < 0.0001). Five-year OS probability was significantly greater for cohort A than for cohort B (70.2% vs. 32.1%; P < 0.0001). After adjusting for IMDC risk criteria and age, both OS (HR 0.46, 0.38-0.56, P < 0.0001) and TTF (HR 0.79, 0.69-0.92, P = 0.0021) were greater in cohort A1 vs. B. For cohort A1 the median time on AS was 14.2 m (range 6 – 71). Conclusions: Based on the largest analysis of AS in mRCC to date, our data suggest that a subset of pts may be safely observed without immediate initiation of systemic therapy. Prospective validation is required in the contemporary immunotherapy era.

Deferred cytoreductive nephrectomy among patients with newly diagnosed metastatic renal cell carcinoma treated initially with sunitinib

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Background: While the CARMENA trial prompts more caution with upfront cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC), 17% of patients in the sunitinib alone arm underwent deferred CN (dCN). Upfront systemic therapy has been proposed as a potential litmus test to identify patients suitable for CN, but data on outcomes are limited. We sought to characterize outcomes of dCN after upfront sunitinib relative to sunitinib alone. Methods: Patients with newly diagnosed mRCC receiving upfront sunitinib were identified from the International mRCC Database Consortium (IMDC) from 2006-2018. All CNs done after initial sunitinib were included, excluding CNs performed after sunitinib failure. The outcomes were overall survival (OS) and time to treatment failure (TTF). Kaplan Meier and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed; dCN was analyzed as a time-varying covariate to account for immortal time bias. Results: The cohort included 708 patients of whom 53 (7.5%) underwent dCN at a median of 6.5 months (IQR 3.5,10.5) from diagnosis. Patients in the dCN group were more likely to have better Karnofsky performance status (KPS), intermediate IMDC risk, fewer metastatic sites, and response to upfront sunitinib (Table). There were 604 deaths during a median follow-up of 63 months. Median OS and TTF with dCN were 43.5 and 19.8 months vs. 9.4 and 4.3 months without, respectively. Upon multivariable analysis, dCN remained significantly associated with OS (HR 0.45, 95%CI 0.31-0.65; p < 0.001) but not TTF (HR 0.73, 95%CI 0.52-1.01; p = 0.056). Conclusions: Patients who received dCN were carefully selected and achieved long OS. With these benchmark outcomes, optimal selection criteria need to be identified and confirmation of the role of dCN in a clinical trial is warranted. [Table: see text]

Systems based analysis of human embryos and gene networks involved in cell lineage allocation

BACKGROUND

Little is understood of the molecular mechanisms involved in the earliest cell fate decision in human development, leading to the establishment of the trophectoderm (TE) and inner cell mass (ICM) stem cell population. Notably, there is a lack of understanding of how transcriptional networks arise during reorganisation of the embryonic genome post-fertilisation.

RESULTS

We identified a hierarchical structure of preimplantation gene network modules around the time of embryonic genome activation (EGA). Using network models along with eukaryotic initiation factor (EIF) and epigenetic-associated gene expression we defined two sets of blastomeres that exhibited diverging tendencies towards ICM or TE. Analysis of the developmental networks demonstrated stage specific EIF expression and revealed that histone modifications may be an important epigenetic regulatory mechanism in preimplantation human embryos. Comparison to published RNAseq data confirmed that during EGA the individual 8-cell blastomeres are transcriptionally primed for the first lineage decision in development towards ICM or TE.

CONCLUSIONS

Using multiple systems biology approaches to compare developmental stages in the early human embryo with single cell transcript data from blastomeres, we have shown that blastomeres considered to be totipotent are not transcriptionally equivalent. Furthermore we have linked the developmental interactome to individual blastomeres and to later cell lineage. This has clinical implications for understanding the impact of fertility treatments and developmental programming of long term health.